[Song for a Departure] A send-off song for you. A classic masterpiece among departure songs.
Starting a new chapter—whether it’s pursuing further education, changing jobs, or chasing your dreams in a new place—there are many kinds of departures in life.
Leaving the familiar and stepping into a new environment is never easy, and you may face many tough moments along the way.
Here, we’ll introduce uplifting songs to cheer you on—songs for setting out, graduation songs that give you the courage to keep going in a new place.
We’ve carefully selected powerful anthems that will push you forward as you take your next step, and that are also perfect for sending to the dear friends and companions who are about to embark on their own journeys.
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[Song for Departure] A send-off song for you. Classic departure songs (31–40)
Words of FarewellKaientai
Back in the day, when there weren’t as many graduation songs as there are now, this song “Okuru Kotoba” was sung at schools everywhere.
If you’re in your 40s or 50s, you’ve probably sung it at least once—how about you? The lyrics depict a townscape in the first half and convey heartfelt feelings in the second, and no matter which part you take, it feels relatable, as if it were about yourself.
Tetsuya Takeda has commented that he considers this song “a breakup song,” and depending on the listener, it might be taken that way.
It’s great to listen to on your own, but it’s also a song you’ll definitely want to sing when you want to express gratitude to someone.
At dawn again today, with cherry blossoms dancingCHiCO with HoneyWorks
This is the song that became the theme for the anime “Gintama: Porori-hen (Slip Arc).” Its message—that even if we’re apart, our bonds don’t fade and we’re always connected—is such a wonderful encouragement for someone setting out on a new journey.
With its bright, upbeat tone, it feels like the kind of song that helps you remember friends far away and keep going even when you’re feeling down.
road; way; path; street; route; Tao (in philosophy)EXILE
It’s an EXILE song that stays close to the bittersweet feelings of parting at the moment of departure and gives you the courage to move forward on your own path.
The gentle, piano-centered sound evokes graduation ceremonies and accentuates the loneliness of farewell.
The lyrics, which look back on the memories you’ve built up, are also key, conveying an emphasis on cherishing human connections.
There’s a development where the sound gradually grows more powerful, and you can feel a message encouraging you to move forward positively.
My friend — from here on, forever…Ketsumeishi
How would you answer the question, “Can people stay best friends forever?” If you’re unsure, I really want you to listen to this song.
The lyrics, like “No matter how hard things get for you far away, I’ll be the one thinking of you,” cut straight to the heart.
When you feel anxious about a new beginning, I quietly recommend this song.
The music video features the comedy trio Dachou Club, and it’s known for being a real tear-jerker! Truly, please give it a watch.
To the futureKiroro
It was released in 1998 as Kiroro’s second single.
It’s often sung in junior high and high school music classes and at choir competitions, and it’s also well known as a graduation song.
It’s a warm piece that seems to point the way forward.
It gives you a gentle push so you can take a strong first step toward the future.
Song of Departure: A farewell song for you. Classic departure songs (41–50)
Words of FarewellFLOW
When it comes to classic songs for departure days and graduation ceremonies, ‘Okuru Kotoba’ immediately comes to mind.
Released in 1979 as a single by Kaientai, sung by Tetsuya Takeda, this masterpiece has continued to be performed as a choral piece.
In 2003, the rock band FLOW covered it, leading to a renewed hit.
The lyrics convey the golden truth that the more sorrow and hardship one experiences in life, the kinder one becomes.
No matter the era, it’s a song that powerfully resonates in scenes where people overcome various struggles together and then set off on their own paths.
C.h.a.o.s.m.y.t.h.ONE OK ROCK
Some of you may be worried that a change in your environment could cause the friendships you’ve had until now to fade away.
In times like these, I’d like to recommend ONE OK ROCK’s “C.h.a.o.s.m.y.t.h.” It’s a song that vocalist Taka wrote for his friends, singing about unchanging friendship and memories that never disappear, no matter what happens.
It’s perfect to share with a friend who’s feeling anxious.
By the way, the title is said to be made from the initials of his friends’ names.
